#123: Creating a Safety System for Mental Illness

FROM THIS SHOW…

Do you ever look out the car window and see someone on the street having a tough time? It’s not too difficult to imagine that things could always be worse. And even though that’s an understandable sentiment, the reality might have more to do with the differences between your utilized social networks rather than pure hard luck.

On today’s episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast, Mike shares how he’s built (and continues to build) a network that catches him as he falls into mental illness. There’s wonderful and abundant safety in surrounding yourself with helpful and invested people. And sometimes that’s the only reason we can keep sleeping on a warm, dry bed at night.

Definitely don’t miss this episode!

Listen to the podcast:

Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts!  With every past episode at your fingertips, plus special Bonus Content with my guests, what's not to love! And if you're feeling generous, would you please leave me a review? It is a special treat to read each and every one of them. Just write about your favorite part of the show! :-) 

TAKEAWAYS

• Your “safety system” is made up of people who support you being your best and your healthiest, even when it’s downright impossible to feel that way. 

• One of the easiest areas to build your safety net is in the connection you have to health care professionals, who can help you with not only your physical health, but your mental wellbeing as well.

• The hardest but most essential support relationships are those you have with your “Lifers” (see below). These are the people who can kick you in the ass when you’re dragging your feet in critical life responsibilities.

Lifer Discussion Guide

Use the questions in today’s Lifer Guide to assist you over any hurdles you may have to clear as you address your mental health. These are special conversations!

“Lifers” are people who have unwavering faithfulness. This assures you that they’ll stick by you through all the highs and lows that are normal for a life with mental health challenges. If you haven’t nominated a lifelong family member or friend as part of your non-medical support team, what are you waiting for? :-)

The Questions:

1) Which one of the “puzzle pieces” in today’s episode is the easiest for you to build and maintain?

2) Where in the safety system are you needing to invest the most effort? / Why are you lacking in that area?

3) How convinced are you that this safety system is going to help you? / Is there anything you would add to it that wasn’t discussed today?

Join the Tribe!

Once you’ve had a chance to talk or journal about these things you might have a question from this episode. If so, make sure you head on over to The Bipolar Now Podcast Network on Facebook! There’s quite a few people over there who are also taking a new step in their mental health. And we’d love for you to share your story with us when you’re ready. So don’t miss out!